Collection Development: Sociology

To support the Sociology/Social Work curriculum, materials will be acquired to keep the collection current on new theories and techniques in the field of Sociology and Social Work.

SCOPE OF COVERAGE

Language: English will be the primary language of the collection, unless there is a special request from a student or faculty for materials in another language, especially Spanish language material.

Geography: United States publications are emphasized, with some world sociology materials purchased.

Chronology: Emphasis is placed on the purchase of materials published within the last five years, except in areas covering the history of sociology and social work.

MATERIAL TYPES

All formats may be considered for purchase. Serials are heavily relied upon for current material. Textbooks provide background information. Audiovisual materials will be reviewed for selective additions. CD-ROMs and DVDs are generally added when accompanying print material, but may be purchased separately when available.

SELECTION TOOLS

Materials will be identified through recommendations in or from:

Faculty, student, or patron recommendations

Choice

Library journal

Booklist

[Specialized journals]

Publisher’s Discoverys and flyers

Ref. Z1035.1.G89 1996.Guide to reference books.

Ref. Z1039.C65 B67.Books for college libraries.

Ref. Z1035.1.W33.Walford’s guide to reference materials.

[Specialized reference works: E&GLI, BGMI, MLA]

RETENTION POLICY:

[In the areas of science, technology, medicine, and business:]

All materials will be considered for de-selection with five years of publication. All superseded editions will be removed from the shelves. Only material containing historic value or consumer interest will be retained beyond the five-year period.

[In the areas of literature and humanities:]

Superseded editions will be removed from the shelves unless they are listed in a major reference tool. Qualifications for indefinite retention include: Historical information on the subject; local connection; community college connection; listed in standard reference works; out of print.